Is alcohol a carcinogen? does social consumption (3-4 drinks a week) pose a significant risk?

Increases risk but..: Regular alcohol use definitely raises risk of many cancers including breast cancer, though it may not technically be a carcinogen. The higher the level of use the greater the risk but recent evidence suggests even 1 drink a day increases risk- see http://www.Denverpost.Com/recommended/ci_22598999 yet mild alcohol use seems to reduce risk of heart disease, stroke & diabetes. See comment for more:.

No. No.: Not a known carcinogen. 1 drink per day in females seems to be cardioprotective.